The Harbour Beautification Project was Action Bequia's second lead project and was done in 2013. It represented an ambitious plan to beautify the harbour area, make it safer for pedestrians and significantly reduce the smell from drains (the drawing below details the original plan).
The beautification and safety elements of the project were successful but maintaining a consistent flow of water down the drain and eliminating the smells has proved more difficult than expected. As always, Action Bequia stands by its lead projects and is committed to seeing this one through to satisfactory completion.
An engineering solution is being attempted in close co-operation with BRAGSA (Bridges, Roads, Building and General Services Authority) and local Bequia government bodies to solve the problem (or at least to improve it considerably). It is planned to implement this improvement plan when a workable solution can be agreed and the necessary financing raised.
As an interim measure some innovative and cost-effective progress is being made and Action Bequia continues to pay for regular drain and beach cleaning.
The fundamental problem is that sea levels are rising and / or the land which the drain has to cross is subsiding. Drain water doesn't flow uphill, so it ponds up with unfortunate consequences for all to see... and smell...
Improved storm drain near the Anglican church
Note: i. Plastic piping to help flush it out. ii. Wire mesh grill to catch debris before reaching the sea. iii. Drain level below beach level.
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January 2013: The smelly and the ugly...
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June 2013: Beautiful planter over the drain
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May 2013: Drains covered, new sidewalk
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Actions Speak Louder Than Words